The state Department of Energy and Environmental Protection announced today that the danger level for forest fires is high, and it is reminding residents to be aware of fire dangers during spring.

The National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag warning for all of the state until 8 p.m. Any private or municipal permit to burn brush is not valid when the fire danger is rated high, very high or extreme. Red Flag warnings are issued when winds will be sustained or there will be frequent gusts higher than about 25 mph, relative humidity is below 30 percent, and precipitation for the previous five days has been less than one-quarter inch.

"Last year, there were more than 500 reported fires in Connecticut that burned approximately 500 acres," DEEP Deputy Commissioner Susan Whalen said in a news release. "Fires will be very difficult to control today, especially when the winds are gusting over 20 mph this afternoon. Anyone spotting a forest fire should remain calm and dial 911 to report the fire as quickly as possible to the local fire department."

For information on fire safety, contact DEEP's Forestry Division at (860) 424-3630.